Lifewise Big Sleep Out 2014: Why Am I Sleeping Rough?

Geraldine (Underage Sex Worker, Illegal Migrant) from ‘Whore’ is no stranger to sleeping (rough) in a van or showering in public bathrooms. Geraldine shares her story about homelessness, and why it’s important to support the cause.

When I first came to Auckland 4 years ago, I surprised myself saying “oh what an amazing place, I haven’t seen any homeless people on the street here!”
Of course after living in Paris for 3 years where poverty and people living in the street hits you all the time. When you leave your house, I clearly didn’t see it or didn’t want to see it here (in NZ) at first.
When talking to Corie Haddock from Lifewise Merge Cafe on Kroad I heard him say that most of the poverty here is invisible. That is the reason why I want to be part of this event. Even if you don’t see it, you need to open your eyes and heart, then do something about it!
I lived in a van for 10 months here in New Zealand and it was a choice. I wanted a life experience but when winter creeps up on you, it’s not funny anymore. I’ll always remember the day I stayed in a house again: feeling comfort, warmth and protection you then appreciate, like you never did. Don’t take the roof over your head for granted please! I want to put myself out there on the 3rd of July and understand what so many people experience.
We are now in 2014 and everyone needs a home. Let’s work together to raise the much needed monies to house the future of NZ: youth.